Introduction
When I look at this cityscape, I see more than buildings. I see a whisper of my past — the years I worked and walked among the towers, shaping a life within their rhythm. The shimmer of plants speaks to resilience, to the quiet ways light endures.
From this image came a deeper reflection, one that carried me beyond memory into the mystery that calls me home. We each meet thresholds — not only crossings, but mirrors of who we have been and who we are becoming. Laurel
This artwork was inspired by a photograph I took inside Ringling’s Ca’ d’Zan, the magnificent Venetian-style mansion John Ringling built for his wife, Mable.
What began as a simple window with its panes of glass became, through my transformation, a surreal vision — where the outside world seemed to turn inward, and imagination reshaped reality. Laurel
Visit my Etsy shop to view this artwork https://www.etsy.com/listing/601201523 -
Embracing the Journey: The Story Behind ‘Shaped by Fire’
Over the years, I’ve come to understand that life’s most challenging moments are often the ones that shape us the most—much like molten glass formed and transformed by intense heat. “Shaped by Fire” is a poem born from my own journey through trials, growth, and healing.
In this poem, I share the metaphor of being like glass—fragile yet resilient—cracked but still whole. Each fracture, each shard, carries light and color, revealing the unique beauty and strength within. It’s a reflection of how our struggles, losses, and joys intertwine to create the vibrant tapestry of our souls.
This piece is my invitation to you: to embrace your own path of transformation, to see the divine intention woven through your experiences, and to recognize the radiant light that exists within you, no matter how many times life’s flames have shaped you.
Join me in this heartfelt reflection on resilience, hope, and the power of embracing who we truly are. Namaste, Laurel
The Bench Beckons: A Personal Reflection
Sometimes, the most profound invitations in life don’t come with fanfare. They arrive quietly—like a whisper on the wind, or the gentle pull of a weathered bench beneath an old tree. That’s how The Bench Beckons came to me—not as a dramatic calling, but as a subtle nudge to pause, to breathe, to listen.
In the stillness of that moment, I began to notice things I often rushed past: the rustle of leaves, the hush between heartbeats, the sacred space between doing and simply being. This piece grew from that stillness—from the stories a bench might hold, and the ones I continue to live.
As I approach a new season in my life, turning 80 this year, I find myself drawn more deeply to the spaces that ask nothing of me but my presence. The Bench Beckons is a reflection on those spaces, and the quiet truths they reveal when we finally sit still long enough to hear them. Namaste, Laurel
And now, here I am.
“I was here. I listened. I remembered.”
The Quiet Hour: A Reflection in Image and Word
Sometimes an image won’t leave me—it lingers quietly in my mind, asking to be brought into form. That’s what happened here. Long before the words arrived, I saw the essence of this piece taking shape: a feeling, a vision, something unspoken but persistent. So I followed it, letting the artwork lead the way.
Only after creating the image did the words begin to flow. Not forced, but gently—like they had been waiting for the right moment to speak. Together, the art and the poem hold something reflective, something real. A moment of stillness. A glimpse of what lives beneath the surface of everyday life.
I share it with you from that place of quiet knowing. May it meet you gently, and offer a pause to reconnect with your own inner rhythm.
I AM ....
DETACHED
Free from expectation, I grow with each moment, releasing what no longer serves me. Detachment grants clarity—freedom not as escape, but as space to grow. I am a thread woven into existence, a living canvas where each stroke tells the story of my life.
CONNECTED
Rooted in strength, I draw energy from the world around me. The universe moves through me, steady and constant. I rise, endure, and move forward with purpose. Even in solitude, I am never alone…woven from stardust, connected to the cosmos, a reflection of something greater. My light reaches beyond me, illuminating unseen paths for myself and others.
I AM ....
GRIEVING
Loss shapes me, but it does not define me. I carry sorrow with dignity, honoring the love that remains. Grief reveals my depth—my ability to feel, remember, and cherish. Through the ache, I find meaning; in tears, I discover healing. I mourn, yet move forward, carrying the light of those I have lost within me.
COURAGEOUS
I face the unknown with an open heart, knowing that every challenge, fall, and doubt is another step toward becoming. Strength is not the absence of fear but the willingness to walk through it. I stand firm, press on with grit, and rise—always, I rise.
I AM ....
FEARFUL
Fear does not weaken me; it fortifies me. It is the shadow that makes my light shine brighter, the challenge that calls forth my courage. I acknowledge my fear but do not bow to it. Step by step, I move forward, proving that even in uncertainty, I am resilient.
POWERFUL
My strength is steady, my presence unwavering. Power is not just force—it is the quiet certainty within, the relentless spirit that refuses to break. I am resilience in motion, a creator of possibility, limitless in potential. I carve my own path
I AM ....
AGING
Every line on my face tells a story, every step carries the wisdom of experience. Time refines, strengthens, and deepens my purpose, connecting me to my soul’s essence. I walk through life’s changing seasons, knowing that each moment enriches my spirit and affirms my truth.
INSPIRING
My journey extends beyond myself—it radiates outward, illuminating the way for others. Through my strength, struggles, and triumphs, I become a guiding light for those seeking their own truth. I live boldly, love deeply, and rise with unwavering determination. My presence ignites hope, my words and art inspire courage, and my essence embodies strength and grace.
***
THE ART OF BECOMING ... AN ABSTRACT BY DESIGN
I am all of these things…fluid yet grounded, vulnerable yet strong, grieving yet courageous. I Am An Abstract by Design, constantly evolving, shaping my existence with intention. A fusion of light and depth, I move through time with tenacity, leaving a lasting imprint on the world around me. Laurel D. Rund
I recently participated in a guided meditation that took me on a journey to a quiet realm of self-discovery and inner calm. The session began with deep, intentional breathing and gentle instructions that helped me let go of daily distractions and enter a space of mindful presence.
As I relaxed, I visualized a small stream winding its way through a peaceful forest. The water, illuminated by soft sunlight filtering through the leaves, created a setting that was both simple and profoundly soothing. Standing by the stream, I listened to the gentle murmur of the water and the subtle rustle of leaves—a natural invitation to sink deeper into inner calm.
In that reflective moment, I looked into the clear water and saw more than just my physical image. I recognized my own magnificence—a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty that reside within me. This insight filled me with gratitude and hope, reaffirming that every pause and every mindful breath can help uncover the limitless potential within.
What made the meditation truly meaningful was its ability to connect me with both the natural world and my inner self. It was a reminder that moments of stillness are opportunities to embrace clarity, renew our purpose, and rediscover our inner light.
May this reflection inspire you to pause, breathe, and explore the depths of your own being, discovering the radiant energy that lights your way every day.
As the New Year unfolds, I feel the steady, profound glow of the light within me. It is a light that has deepened with time—not the fleeting spark of youth, but a lasting flame, strengthened by wisdom and formed by the experiences that have shaped me. This light carries the story of my journey, the lessons I’ve embraced, and the love I’ve both received and shared.
At this stage of life, as an elder, I am called to honor this radiant light—not merely as a gift, but as a sacred responsibility. It is my guide, and it shines for others who may seek its warmth. This light holds the essence of all I’ve learned, the strength I’ve nurtured, and the spiritual connection that binds me to my divine source.
Now is the time for reflection, deeper growth, and for celebrating the fullness of who I am—both human and spiritual, finite and infinite. My light isn’t diminished by age; rather, it is refined and magnified by the truths I’ve uncovered and the love I’ve cultivated. With each passing year, it grows clearer, warmer, and more powerful.
As I step into this New Year, I move forward with intention, grace, and profound trust in this inner light. It will guide not only my own path but will radiate outward, illuminating the way for others. This light is a reminder that my growth is ever unfolding, and the wisdom I’ve gained will serve as a guiding force for the journey ahead.
Laurel D. Rund
This year, I choose to embody light—steady, kind, and unwavering. Radiance isn’t about being flawless; it’s about showing up with presence and intention. It’s embracing who I am, letting go of what dims my spirit, and standing confidently in my truth.
Radiance is cultivated through small, meaningful acts: pausing to breathe, finding joy in the everyday, and extending kindness when it’s least expected. It’s about aligning with my purpose, staying connected to what matters most, and trusting that my light has the power to inspire others.
In 2025, I’ll let my light guide me through challenges and remind me of the beauty in every moment. By choosing to reflect the divine within, I hope to illuminate those around me and encourage others to do the same.
Laurel D. Rund
This past year, my 78th, has been challenging with numerous physical ailments and constraints weighing me down, leaving me feeling vulnerable and inert. Yet, when I connect with my inner core and true essence, age becomes meaningless. The God-centered energy within me is eternal and resilient.
Instead of mourning who I was earlier in life, I embrace the ageless and healthy divine being within. It’s time to celebrate both my human and spiritual forms and meet myself where I am. This journey has taught me that my physical body is not my entirety. Each wrinkle and ache is a testament to my life, but they don’t define my spirit.
My soul remains vibrant and full of potential. This inner light, this divine spark, is my quintessence and source of strength, propelling me forward despite physical trials. Recognizing the boundless energy within me serves as my anchor and resilience, reminding me that I am whole, even when my body feels fragmented.
I choose to celebrate the harmony between my physical and spiritual forms. I am not defined by years but by the eternal presence within me. This perspective allows me to transcend struggles and embrace each day with gratitude and grace. In this space of acceptance and celebration, I am free—free to explore the depths of my being, express my true self, and live fully in the present moment.
Meeting myself where I am involves accepting my current reality without judgment. It means recognizing that every stage of life holds its own beauty and significance. By celebrating both my human and spiritual forms, I deepen my connection to myself and the divine—self-love and acceptance nurture my soul and enrich my life's journey.
Laurel D. Rund
July 2024
Exploring the path of self-discovery is like taking a journey filled with moments of understanding and insight. Words and images act as stepping stones, helping me through uncertain times and guiding me to a better understanding of myself. Imagine these words as beacons, lighting the way. Alongside them, there are images that flutter like butterflies, carrying inspiration. They show me parts of myself I might not have noticed before, making this a bit like a special adventure within.
With each step along this path, I delve deeper into the essence of who I am. It's like unfolding a map of my own emotions and beliefs. The journey extends beyond the quest for answers; it's a continuous exploration of new questions. The words and images work together, helping me get closer to my inner self. Every step I take becomes a chance to learn and understand, creating a picture of who I am inside ... a unique divine being.
Laurel D. Rund - 3/2024
Your hold is tight, and I have fought your darkness throughout my life.
How do I befriend you, the very thing that threatens to extinguish my flame?
What lessons do you want me to learn so that you will loosen your grip?
Is it about loss and fear, about being abandoned?
I chose this life, so I must have wanted you to accompany me.
Perhaps your grip is meant to protect me from the depths.
When I die, will you journey through time alongside me, back to the stars?
Will you transform into a black hole, a cosmic presence that stays with me?
Are you my forever companion in the infinite universe?
As my soul contemplated these questions, a profound realization washed over it like a gentle breeze. The Grip of Darkness was not an adversary to be vanquished but a mentor, a guide through the intricate corridors of life. In its grip, my soul learned the art of tenacity, the beauty of courage, and the power of perseverance.
In choosing this life, I invited the Grip of Darkness to accompany me, understanding on a profound level that its presence is not a burden but a blessing. It becomes my shield in moments of despair, reminding me of the inherent strength and resilience that resides within my very core. I’ve learned to face my fears and insecurities, finding solace in the knowledge that even in the darkest moments, my inner light will prevail.
“Yes," my soul whispered "You embrace darkness not in an evil way, but as a guardian, a silent witness to your journey. Together you share your light, not to extinguish it, but to understand it, to illuminate the very essence of your being."
With a sigh as ancient as time itself, the Grip of Darkness responded, its voice echoing through the cosmos. "When you depart from this earthly realm, I will journey with you, back to the stars from whence you came. I shall become a black hole, a silent sentinel standing guard beside you, a companion in the infinite expanse of the universe."
The Grip of Darkness, often misunderstood, revealed itself as a teacher, a companion, and a friend. Its lessons, veiled in shadows, helped unravel the mysteries of my existence, guiding me in this final chapter of my life towards self-discovery and acceptance.
The answer lies in the eternal connection we share with the universe. The darkness becomes a part of the cosmic dance, guiding us back to the celestial realms from whence we came.
In the tapestry of life, it has become a thread, weaving through my experiences and reminding me that in the depths of darkness, my light shines the brightest.
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As I sit here and reflect on my life, I can't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe. It's amazing to think that we are all made of stardust, the same stuff that makes up the stars and galaxies that we see in the night sky. It's a reminder that we are all connected, not just to each other but to the entire universe.
And yet, as much as we are made of stardust, we are also much more than that. We have an essence, a unique combination of traits and qualities that make us who we are. It's this essence that makes us individuals, with our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It's what sets us apart from each other and gives us our own unique perspective on the world.
At the same time, this essence is also what connects us to each other and to the universe. We are all part of the same cosmic dance, moving and shifting together in ways that are both beautiful and mysterious. It's a reminder that we are all in this together, and that we all play a part in the grand scheme of things.
And when our time on this earth comes to an end, we return to stardust once again. Our physical bodies may be gone, but our essence lives on in the memories of those we leave behind, and in the universe itself. It's a comforting thought, knowing that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves, and that our essence will continue on in some way, shape, or form.
"We are travelers on a cosmic journey, stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of Infinity. Life is Eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share. This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in Eternity.” Paulo Coelho
As I continue to reflect on my life and my place in the universe, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder, am grateful for this gift of life, for the experiences I've had, and for the connections I've made with others.
I am in awe of the beauty and mystery of the universe, and the way that we are all connected to each other and to the stardust that makes up everything around us. With this is mind, I finally understand that We Are All One.
Laurel D. Rund
I am stardust, and stardust is me
A unique expression, of the cosmic dance
A trillion particles, come together as One
It radiates from me, with every breath I take
A source of energy, with light embedded
That will return to the stars and shine on for Eternity.
Students, Teachers, and Parents, sharing in a Vision of Peace
A new component: An art-assemblage project available in 21+ languages. Participants of all ages are asked to write one word in the center of their heart project download that represents what they want to manifest for the Well-Being of themselves, family, and community. This is a process that highlights the power of personal and collective visioning. http://Love-it.today
About dwij - David Gittens
